(Cheyenne,
Wyo.) - Governor Matt Mead
said recently that the Final Winter Use Plan for YellowstoneNational Park
is a positive step forward. The National Park Service unveiled the plan in
February. The current plan is open for public comment. Go here for more
information on making your voice heard. http://www.snowest.com/snowmobile-news/display.cfm?ID=3767.

Wyoming
has had cooperating agency status in this planning process and was fully
engaged in representing the state.

The Final Winter Use Plan gives tour operators flexibility
based on public demand. This flexibility is related to the number of
snowmobiles and snowcoaches that can enter the park each day and travel along
roads, as well as to the use of new technologies. Governor Mead also felt that
it was important that non-commercial guided access be allowed and the Final
Plan allows such access.

"The winter use plan has been a high priority in Wyoming for many years
and has continued to be a high priority in my administration. We worked hard to
represent the interests of our state and the communities that host millions of
visitors to Yellowstone each year," Governor
Mead said. "I want to thank the local cities and counties for their work and
the citizens who participated in this process. This plan strikes a balance that
I support and worked to achieve. It will have long-term beneficial impacts on
the economy and the people of Wyoming.

"Snowmobiling in Yellowstone was an experience I enjoyed
growing up in Wyoming
and it created a special bond with the Park for me. I think that allowing
non-commercial guided access will generate lasting memories of Yellowstone for generations to come," Governor Mead said.
"Yellowstone is an iconic place and because of
that millions come to the area each year, making the Park an important part of
our state's economy. I am glad Wyoming's
voice was heard in this process."

Governor Mead thanked the Superintendent of Yellowstone
National Park, Dan Wenk, and Secretary of the Interior, Ken Salazar for being
responsive to the ideas from Wyoming
people. The Governor said he pledges to continue to be engaged with the Park
Service as this plan is finalized and implemented.

U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.) released the following
statement regarding the Final Winter Use Plan:

"Today's announcement will hopefully bring to close a
15-year long debate on how the National Park Service manages Yellowstone's
winter use activities. I'm encouraged Wyoming's views were incorporated into the
final plan. By keeping SylvanPass open, providing noncommercial access, and
allowing flexibility for snowmobile groups, Wyoming residents and communities will be
able to enjoy winter recreation and good jobs. Superintendent Wenk has
developed a plan that appears to address both the economic and environmental
needs of the park. As the plan is implemented, I'll follow it closely."